Agricultural drone use soars among NZ contractors
Use of agricultural drones by contractors in New Zealand is soaring.
Pottinger’s SensoSafe detection system is now undergoing working trials on farms in Europe.
SensoSafe was first revealed in 2017 when it took a Silver Medal at that year’s Agritechnica Event.
Designed to detect and save the lives of animals hiding in crops, particularly in heavy first cuts, the optical sensor mounted on the company’s front mowers works by converting differing light wavelengths to an electrical signal.
When a deer fawn or other small animal is detected in the crop, the hydraulic system automatically lifts the mower to protect the animal, while at the same time sending an audible alert to the driver, allowing them to bring the tractor to a stop. Said to work in direct sunlight, the system can differentiate between fawns, other animals and even molehills.
Currently, a second system is being tested for rear-mounted mower setups, covering the whole working width of the machine, mounted on an intermediate frame between the tractor and the mower. When an animal is detected, the operator can lift the rear mower, leaving an uncut area to protect the animal, or stop and move the animal out of the danger zone.
OPINION: Ministry for Primary Industries' situation outlook for primary industries report (SOPI) makes impressive reading.
Sheep and beef farmers Matt and Kristin Churchward say using artificial intelligence (AI) to spread fertiliser on their sprawling 630ha farm is a game changer for their business.
Commercial fruit and vegetable growers are being encouraged to cast their votes in the Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) board directors' election.
A unique discovery by a Palmerston North science company, Biolumic, looks set to revolutionise the value and potential of ryegrass and the secret is the application of ultraviolet (UV) light.
A New Zealand company is redefining the global collagen game by turning New Zealand sheepskin into a world-class health product.
With further extreme weather on the way, ANZ Bank is encouraging farmers and business owners impacted by the recent extreme weather and flooding to seek support if they need it.
OPINION: It's official, Fieldays 2025 clocked 110,000 visitors over the four days.
OPINION: The Federated Farmers rural advocacy hub at Fieldays has been touted as a great success.